# FCE Test for Workers' Comp: What to Know | Shook & Stone ![patient wearing knee brace using crutches assisted by physical therapist during functional capacity evaluation](https://www.shookandstone.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/fce-test-300x200.jpg) Before completing a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE), you should know that this assessment can**measure an individual**‘**s physical abilities and limitations**. Before undergoing this evaluation, it’s essential to understand what to expect and how to prepare. This guide will provide essential information to help you navigate the FCE process. You can turn to a [Las Vegas workers’ compensation lawyer](https://www.shookandstone.com/las-vegas/workers-compensation-lawyer/) if you have additional questions about your FCE and the process of getting the funds you need after an accident at work. Workers’ comp FCE guide FCE prep kit & what-to-expect timeline Check off each item before your test — then see what happens after 0 of 18 complete What to bring 0 / 5 Photo ID and insurance cardBring both even if you think they have them on file List of all current medications with dosagesIncludes supplements — evaluators need the full picture Any assistive devices you normally useCane, brace, walker — bring it if you use it day-to-day Snacks and waterFCEs can run 4–6 hours. Don’t go in hungry Attorney contact info (if represented)Have it handy if questions arise during the evaluation What to wear 0 / 4 Loose, comfortable clothing you can move inYou will be bending, lifting, and stretching Closed-toe, supportive shoesNo sandals or flip-flops — you will be walking and doing gait tests Clothing that represents your normal daily wearDon’t dress up — wear what you actually wear at home Any orthopedic supports or braces you wear regularlyWear them as you normally would — don’t remove them to seem less impaired What to tell them 0 / 5 Report pain honestly and consistently throughout the testEvaluators compare your pain reports early vs. late in the test Describe your worst days, not just your bestThey are testing your functional limits, not your good days Tell them when you need to stop — don’t push through painStopping is not failure. Pushing past your limit can hurt your case Mention how activities affect you the next dayDelayed pain response is common and clinically important Ask for breaks when you need themYou are allowed to rest — this is also part of the evaluation data What NOT to do 0 / 4 Don’t exaggerate OR downplay your limitationsFCE evaluators are trained to detect both — just be accurate Don’t take extra pain medication before the testIt can mask your true functional level and flag inconsistencies Don’t perform better than you feel capable ofThe evaluator may observe you before and after the formal test Don’t miss the appointment without rescheduling firstA no-show can be used against your workers’ comp claim What happens after your FCE? Typical timeline from test day to determination letter Test day FCE completed The evaluator collects all data. You won’t receive results on the spot — they need time to score and write the report. 3 – 7 days later Evaluator writes and submits report Report goes to the requesting party — usually the insurance adjuster or your employer’s workers’ comp carrier, not directly to you. 1 – 2 weeks after test Insurance adjuster reviews findings The adjuster uses the FCE results to make decisions about your work restrictions, return-to-work status, or settlement value. 2 – 4 weeks after test You receive determination or next steps This could be a return-to-work order, permanent work restriction determination, or a settlement offer. Timelines vary by state and insurer. If you disagree with the results You have the right to challenge the FCE An attorney can request a second FCE, challenge methodology, or use your treating physician’s records to dispute findings that don’t reflect your actual limitations. Save your completed checklist Enter your name and email and we’ll send you a copy of this checklist to reference before your appointment. Checklist sent! Check your inbox — we’ve emailed your prep checklist. Good luck at your FCE. Worried about how your FCE results could affect your workers’ comp claim? Our attorneys review FCE disputes for free. [Talk to an attorney](https://www.shookandstone.com/contact-us/) ## Information About FCE Tests You should know what an FCE is before completing the assessment. A Functional Capacity Evaluation is a critical part of the workers’ compensation claims process. The test is taken by the injured employee in a workers’ compensation case. The physician seeing the patient typically orders this evaluation. Physicians can use it to determine a person’s ability to return to work after an injury or illness, or to assess their eligibility for benefits. An insurance adjuster, lawyer, or employer could also order an FCE. ![Cta Image](https://www.shookandstone.com/wp-content/themes/shook-and-stone-redesign/assets/app/img/cta-1.webp) Need Legal Help? We’re here to guide you and fight for the benefits you deserve. [(702) 570-0000](tel:+1(702) 570-0000) ## What To Know Before Completing Your FCE Test Whether you are taking the FCE to obtain disability benefits or looking to return to your duties, you must prepare for the exam. You’ll want to answer every question asked of you and provide the most accurate information possible. Here are some ways you can prepare for your FCE test. ### Review Your Job Description Reviewing your job description will help you understand the physical demands of your job and how they relate to the FCE. It can help you know what to expect the FCE physician to ask of you during the exam. If you don’t have a copy of your job description, you should contact your employer’s human resources (HR) department or your supervisor. Your workers’ compensation attorney can help you obtain your job description and understand how your injuries prevent you from completing specific tasks. ### Learn What Information the Employer’s Insurance Company Provided The insurance company representing your employer will have a claims adjuster write a letter to the FCE physician. This letter may describe your injuries or details of the treatments you have received or are currently receiving. Before going through the exam, you must know exactly what this letter contains. Ask to review the letter and address any discrepancies during your exam. Request a hard copy of the letter and send a copy to your workers’ comp case manager. ### Review Your Medical Records The doctor administering your FCE test will be familiar with your medical records related to your claim. Your records may include information about any previous injuries you sustained in the same area. Be prepared to answer questions about any other injuries you’ve experienced. Always be honest, and never try to hide or downplay them. Highlight any differences between your previous injuries and your current condition. ### Find Out What Questions You Can Expect from the Examiner Your employer’s insurance company will have requested specific information. You must learn the questions they’d like answered so you can go to the test prepared. This information will be in the letter you requested from the insurance company. Be fully prepared to answer each question. ### Make a List of Current Symptoms During your FCE exam, you must be clear about your current pain levels and symptoms. It may help to make a list of the main areas affected by your injury, additional symptoms, and any limitations you’re experiencing. These limitations could include the inability to do simple daily tasks like grooming, walking, or preparing meals. If you’re experiencing referred pain or pain in other areas due to your injury, you must also mention that. Add it to your list even if it seems like a minor symptom. ### Review the Accident to Ensure Your Account Is Consistent with Records You’ll have to recount specific details about your injury and the accident itself. It’s essential to be clear that the accident was related to your job. The doctor may be looking for discrepancies or inconsistencies in your story to include in the report. Be sure all your answers are consistent and concise. Avoid overelaborating or speaking for extended periods, as these actions can impact the outcome of your claim. ### Other Tips for Preparing for the FCE Exam There are some general steps you can take to ensure you are ready for your FCE exam, including: - **Get a good night**‘**s sleep**: Being well-rested will help you perform at your best. - **Eat a light meal**: Avoid heavy meals that could make you feel sluggish. - **Wear comfortable clothing**: Choose loose-fitting clothes that allow for easy movement. These actions will help you feel more comfortable during the exam, allowing you to focus on what is required. ### Consult with Your Workers’ Compensation Attorney Before you go to your FCE exam, you should have a meeting with your lawyer. They can review your file with you and help you prepare for common questions asked at the evaluation. Workers’ compensation lawyers have in-depth knowledge about what happens when medical experts conduct FCE examinations. They can guide you through the process before it even happens and explain what you need to know before completing your FCE request.  The Compensation Benefits You Deserve ![ampersand](https://www.shookandstone.com/wp-content/themes/shook-and-stone-redesign/assets/app/svg/ampersand.svg) We’ll help you win the benefits you need to get your life back. [(702) 570-0000](tel:+1(702) 570-0000) ## Who Needs a Functional Capacity Evaluation? **Anyone who has filed a workers**‘**compensation claim** can be subject to an FCE test. A physician usually orders the test, but your insurance company, lawyer, or employer can also request it. It’s used as a baseline to gauge the worker’s ability to meet the job’s demands. You can choose to refuse an FCE exam, but there are consequences. Refusing to take a functional capacity evaluation will be noted by your case manager, and the test administrator will record the exact words you used when refusing. If you have a high possibility of re-injury, your healthcare provider may recommend an FCE before you return to your job duties. [(702) 570-0000](tel:+1(702) 570-0000) Call Today for a Free Consultation We’ll help you win the benefits you need to get your life back. ## Why Do You Need to Do an FCE Test? If you have been injured on the job and must undergo physical therapy or require the services of an occupational therapist to heal, you may need to complete an FCE test. An FCE test evaluates your physical abilities to see if there might be any limitations to your being able to perform the job you had before your injury. From the test results, your physician or the healthcare professional evaluating you can determine whether you can end physical therapy completely and go back to work. They will submit an FCE report to the party that requested the test and your case manager. Depending on how you do on your FCE test, you might have permanent restrictions on work performance or be deemed unable to return to your previous position. ### When Does an FCE Test Happen? Medical professionals typically complete an FCE test at the end of the physical therapy or occupational therapy process. However, you could also complete it any time doctors release you from medical care.  An injured worker could also take an FCE test if they have not completed physical therapy. You can learn more about when to expect FCE testing and what to know before you complete your FCE request from an attorney.  ## What Happens During an FCE Test? An FCE test happens at a medical facility, such as a physical therapy center, and the certified healthcare provider who received the referral will carry out the test. Healthcare providers can include physical therapists, physicians, or athletic trainers. The test typically lasts between two and three hours. Always wear comfortable clothing that allows for unrestricted movement. You’ll also need your medications and mobility devices, such as a brace. When you arrive, the clinician will know your job, required duties, and injury diagnosis. They will also know about any physical therapy you received. During the test, the physician will test several elements of your physical strength necessary to perform your job, including the following: ### Functional Testing You will undergo physical tests that involve pulling, pushing, lifting, and carrying materials for your FCE. A medical professional may administer these tests to determine your physical limits. ### Dexterity Testing The healthcare professional will test your physical capacity for actions such as squatting, walking, kneeling, reaching, standing, balancing, crawling, bending, and sitting. ### Work Simulations You may have to perform tasks that mimic your job duties, such as typing, filing, or operating machinery. ### Psychological Evaluation Doctors may perform an evaluation that includes assessments of your pain tolerance, motivation, and overall effort. ### Injury Testing The doctor will measure your muscle strength and range of motion in the affected areas, comparing them to your previous physical condition as reported in your medical records. The results of the FCE go into creating a detailed report that outlines your physical capabilities and any limitations. This report can help guide decisions about your return-to-work plan, including any necessary accommodations or restrictions. Your case manager will add all information to your workers’ comp case file. Added information includes anything you say during the appointment and any observations made by the testing physician. ## What to Do During Your FCE Exam On the day of your exam, you must conduct yourself appropriately. Don’t be nervous, and consider the tone of your voice when speaking to the doctor. Please plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. You could miss the appointment and delay your overall claim if you’re late. It will also reflect poorly on you. Now that you’ve reviewed what to know before completing your FCE request, here’s what you can do to ensure the appointment goes smoothly. ### Act As Though the Doctor Is Watching at All Times Always act as though your doctor is observing you. Your doctor is evaluating you to ensure your workers’ compensation claims are accurate, so you should always honestly display your symptoms.  If you claim that you cannot walk without limping but take painkillers that allow you to walk briskly into the doctor’s office, your claim might be in trouble. ### Be Honest During the FCE Examination Part of the results of your FCE test has to do with whether the examiner believes you were making a genuine effort during your test. They look for specific signs that you are exaggerating your pain levels or not telling the truth about how your injuries are affecting your life. ### Avoid Taking Pain Medication Before the FCE Exam Pain medication helps you function even when you’re dealing with debilitating injuries. However, even over-the-counter pain medication, like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, could minimize the effects of your injury, causing the examiner to think you feel better than you actually do. ### Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing The examination requires that you perform physical tasks for at least a couple of hours, so make sure you wear clothes that won’t prevent you from moving freely. If you follow these tips during your appointment, the clinicians can accurately assess your physical activity. This increases your chances of securing Social Security Disability (SSD/SSDI) or a favorable workers’ compensation claim. You can learn more about these tests and what to know before completing your FCE request from an attorney. A lawyer can also explain [what not to do at your FCE test](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/what-not-to-do-at-your-fce-test/). ## What Happens After an FCE Test? Once your functional capacity evaluation is complete, the evaluating therapist — typically a physical or occupational therapist — will compile their findings into a written FCE report. This report documents your tested physical abilities: how much weight you can lift, how long you can sit or stand, your range of motion, your endurance, and any observed limitations or inconsistencies. **How long does it take to get FCE results?** Most FCE reports are completed and delivered to the ordering party within **5 to 10 business days** after the evaluation. In some cases, particularly with more complex evaluations, it may take up to two weeks. Once the report is issued, your workers’ compensation insurance carrier typically has a short window — often around 14 days under Nevada workers’ comp guidelines — to review the findings and communicate next steps to you or your attorney. You may not automatically receive a copy. The report is generally sent to whoever ordered the FCE, which is often the insurance adjuster or the employer’s third-party administrator. **You have the right to request a copy** of your FCE report, and if you’re working with a workers’ comp attorney, they should obtain it on your behalf as soon as it’s available. **How FCE results are used in your claim** The FCE report carries significant weight. Here’s what typically happens next, depending on the findings: - **If the FCE supports your reported limitations:** The results can strengthen your claim, support recommendations for ongoing treatment, and help establish the basis for a permanent partial disability (PPD) rating and potential settlement. - **If the FCE suggests you can return to work:** Your employer or the insurer may use the report to argue that you’re ready to resume your job duties — either in full or in a modified capacity. If your job can’t accommodate the restrictions the FCE identifies, you may qualify for vocational rehabilitation or wage-loss benefits. - **If the FCE is used to cut off your benefits:** Insurance carriers sometimes use FCE results to justify ending temporary disability payments. If this happens, you have the right to challenge the decision. How long after the FCE test you get a formal letter or decision from the insurance carrier depends on the complexity of your case and what the results show. For routine cases, expect communication within two to four weeks of the report’s completion. If you haven’t heard anything after three weeks, follow up — either directly or through your attorney. ## What If Your FCE Results Don’t Reflect Your Actual Limitations? This is one of the most common concerns we hear from workers’ comp clients, and it’s a legitimate one. An FCE is a snapshot — typically a one- or two-day evaluation — and it has real limitations as a measure of what you can actually do day-to-day while living with a work injury. **Why FCE results sometimes fall short** A few factors can cause an FCE to underrepresent your true limitations: - **Pain variability.** Many injuries cause pain that fluctuates. On the day of your evaluation, you may have pushed through the testing harder than you normally would, leading to results that look better on paper than your actual functional reality. - **The evaluator’s methodology.** Not all FCE protocols are the same. Some are more rigorous than others, and the qualifications and experience of the administering therapist can influence how the evaluation is conducted and interpreted. - **“Symptom magnification” flags.** FCE reports sometimes include language suggesting a claimant was not giving full effort. These flags are not always accurate and can be challenged. - **Conditions that don’t show up under physical testing.** Chronic pain, nerve damage, cognitive effects of medication, and mental health conditions related to your injury may not be fully captured by physical performance tests. **Your options if the FCE results seem wrong** If you believe your FCE results don’t accurately reflect your limitations, you are not without recourse: 1. **Request a second opinion.** You or your attorney can request an independent FCE from a qualified evaluator who is not affiliated with the insurer’s preferred provider network. A second evaluation can provide a fuller picture — and conflicting FCE results can significantly affect how your claim is resolved. 2. **Gather supporting medical evidence.** Your treating physician’s opinion carries weight. If your doctor’s assessment of your limitations contradicts what the FCE found, a detailed letter from your doctor explaining the discrepancy can be submitted as part of your claim record. 3. **Challenge “submaximal effort” findings.** If the FCE report flags your effort as inconsistent, that characterization can be disputed. An experienced workers’ comp attorney can review the specific tests used to reach that conclusion and, where appropriate, bring in expert testimony to rebut it. 4. **Don’t sign anything before talking to an attorney.** If the insurance carrier sends paperwork citing the FCE results — particularly anything that would settle your claim, modify your benefits, or return you to work — do not sign it without understanding what you’re agreeing to. FCE results are often used as the basis for low-ball settlement offers. ## What Happens if You Can’t Finish an FCE Test? If you feel fatigued or cannot complete the required test, simply communicate that to the clinicians at any time. The testing physician will note this in the final FCE report, as well as any observations of pain, discomfort, or struggle during the test. ## What if You Fail Your FCE Test? You might think you’ve “failed” your FCE test if the examiner determines that you cannot perform tasks essential to the work you did before your injury. The examination report might have such stringent restrictions that you won’t be able to go back to work at all and will have to file for total disability. But your case isn’t over even if you’ve received results like this. You still have the option to appeal the examination results. Appealing the results may mean that you must retake the examination or consult a workers’ compensation attorney for assistance. ## How to Fight FCE Test Results If you’re unhappy with the results of your FCE test, you have options. The work comp lawyers at Shook & Stone will work with you to ensure you completely understand the options available after receiving your FCE results. Each situation is unique, and our team can help workers’ compensation claimants challenge a failed FCE test, fight for ongoing wage loss benefits, and find an employment situation that works best for your post-injury lifestyle. ## FCE Assessments and Workers’ Comp Claims Individuals injured on the job often have to submit to FCE assessments. Workplace injuries are common, and anyone can find themselves dealing with a workers’ compensation claim at some point in their life. If you were among this number and got hurt in the workplace, you have the right to compensation. You can file a claim to receive wage loss benefits and medical care cost benefits. A workers’ comp lawyer can give you the information you need to understand these assessments fully and to help with building your claim and bringing you the funds you need to recover after a workplace accident. Your attorney can also explain what you should know before completing your FCE request.  ## What Compensation Can You Get from Workers’ Comp? The workers’ comp system in Nevada can provide you with several types of benefits after an on-the-job accident. [After your workers’ comp claim is accepted](https://www.shookandstone.com/faqs/what-happens-after-my-workers-compensation-claim-is-accepted/), you may qualify for: ### Funds to Cover Medical Expenses Filing a workers’ comp claim can help you get the money you need to cover all the healthcare expenses associated with your workplace accident. The workers’ comp system can cover everything from your initial treatment to your final physical therapy appointment. It’s crucial that you attend all scheduled medical appointments and follow a doctor’s treatment plan to receive workers’ comp benefits. ### Lost Wages Filing a workers’ comp claim can allow you to secure partial coverage for your lost wages if you need to take time away from work. Generally, the workers’ comp system will cover around 66% of your average pay while you’re off work and recovering. ### Mileage Reimbursement The workers’ comp system may also pay you for the costs of traveling to your medical appointments after an on-the-job accident. ### Vocational Rehabilitation Finally, workers’ comp may offer you vocational rehabilitation services if you cannot go back to your former job after a workplace accident. The program could help with retraining and job placement in some cases. ## FCE Test Frequently Asked Questions You can get answers to all your questions about FCE assessments from a professional legal team. An attorney will help with questions like: ### How much does a functional capacity evaluation cost? An FCE test can cost **between**$**500 and**$**2**,**000**, depending on the test type and the testing institution. ### Who pays for the FCE test? Typically, **the party that requests the FCE**pays for it. The party that has to pay could be the employer, the insurance company, or the government (for an SSD/SSDI claim). If your attorney requests an FCE, they may cover the cost. ### What are the different types of functional capacity evaluation? While there are many different FCE tests, the two primary ones are the **mental functional capacity evaluation and the physical functional capacity** **evaluation**. You may have one or both, depending on your claim. ### How long does a functional capacity test last? A functional capacity test can last between**2 and 6 hours**. The doctor may break it up over two consecutive days. ## Shook & Stone Is Here for You After an FCE Test A lawyer can explain what you need to know before completing your FCE request. By being well-prepared, honest, and communicative, you can maximize your performance and advocate for your best interests. If you’re facing an FCE test and need legal guidance to protect your rights, don’t hesitate to contact Shook & Stone Injury Lawyers. Our seasoned team has **more than 150 years** of combined experience. We can guide you through the complicated process and fight for the benefits you deserve. Contact the [Las Vegas personal injury lawyers](https://www.shookandstone.com/las-vegas-personal-injury-lawyer-ppc/) at Shook & Stone for legal advice to better understand the results of your FCE test. Workers' Compensation Blog Posts: [![What Factors Determine a Workers' Comp Settlement in Reno?](https://www.shookandstone.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2476357073-300x169.jpg)](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/what-factors-determine-a-workers-comp-settlement-in-reno/) [Workers' Compensation](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/category/workers-compensation/) | April 9 2026 ### [What Factors Determine a Workers' Comp Settlement in Reno?](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/what-factors-determine-a-workers-comp-settlement-in-reno/) [READ POST](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/what-factors-determine-a-workers-comp-settlement-in-reno/) [![What Happens After an Impairment Rating in Reno Workers' Comp?](https://www.shookandstone.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2153664451-300x200.jpg)](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/what-happens-after-an-impairment-rating-in-reno-workers-comp/) [Workers' Compensation](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/category/workers-compensation/) | April 10 2026 ### [What Happens After an Impairment Rating in Reno Workers' Comp?](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/what-happens-after-an-impairment-rating-in-reno-workers-comp/) [READ POST](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/what-happens-after-an-impairment-rating-in-reno-workers-comp/) [![Can Las Vegas Delivery Drivers File Workers' Comp Claims?](https://www.shookandstone.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/las_vegas_delivery_driver_unloading_packages_from_van-300x200.jpg)](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/can-las-vegas-delivery-drivers-file-workers-comp-claims/) [Workers' Compensation](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/category/workers-compensation/) | May 4 2026 ### [Can Las Vegas Delivery Drivers File Workers' Comp Claims?](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/can-las-vegas-delivery-drivers-file-workers-comp-claims/) [READ POST](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/can-las-vegas-delivery-drivers-file-workers-comp-claims/) [![How to Report an Injury While Working at a Bar or Nightclub in Las Vegas](https://www.shookandstone.com/wp-content/themes/shook-and-stone-redesign/assets/app/img/default.webp)](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/how-to-report-an-injury-while-working-at-a-bar-or-nightclub-in-las-vegas/) [Workers' Compensation](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/category/workers-compensation/) | June 2 2026 ### [How to Report an Injury While Working at a Bar or Nightclub in Las Vegas](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/how-to-report-an-injury-while-working-at-a-bar-or-nightclub-in-las-vegas/) [READ POST](https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/how-to-report-an-injury-while-working-at-a-bar-or-nightclub-in-las-vegas/) --- Source: https://www.shookandstone.com/blog/what-to-know-before-completing-your-fce-request/